As we prepare to celebrate 67 years of Israel’s independence next week, religious Zionists will use particular forms to show their appreciation for the state. There will be special synagogue services. Many congregations will recite Hallel. The restrictions of the Omer period will be suspended to make way for parties, dancing and barbeques.

We are all familiar with the attempts by some antisemites to hide their hatred of Jews by couching it in attacks on “Israel” or “Zionism” — just as when criticism of the “Israel lobby” is used as code for the idea that Jews control foreign policy.

Plans to hold a conference questioning Israel's right to exist have been scrapped after a legal challenge by its organisers was rejected.

Professors Oren Ben Dor and Suleiman Sharkh applied for a judicial review after Southampton University said it would not host the conference this weekend because of security concerns over planned demonstrations.

Britain's next ambassador to Israel has praised the relationship between the countries as he prepares to move to Tel Aviv.

David Quarrey, who will replace current envoy Matthew Gould in July, predicted "difficult issues" to be overcome during his time in Israel, but said the joint work being done was fuelling his excitement for taking on the role.

A Friends of Israel group set up by Christians has come to the rescue of Jewish students at Exeter University who feel intimidated by Palestinian activists on the campus.
The 20 members of the Jewish Society said they were reluctant to show support for Israel for fear of being targeted by the much larger Friends of Palestine Society (FoP).